FAQs
At ENT Surgeons of Melbourne we know that with every surgical procedure come many questions…
This is why we have supplied some of our most frequently asked questions for your perusal.
What is a Grommet?
Grommets are small plastic tubes made specifically to fit your child’s ear, and their primary function is to keep open an incision made in the eardrum to counteract glue ear…
By maintaining the open incision within the eardrum, the grommet allows proper air circulation within the middle ear and permits a more optimal drainage system of the middle ear. Without a grommet, the incision within the eardrum would generally heal and close within 48 hours.
Where can I find a specialised ear, nose and throat doctor in Melbourne?
At ENT Surgeons of Melbourne our two elite ear, nose and throat surgeons are dedicated to helping you…
At ENT Surgeons of Melbourne, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality service possible. We are a referral-based specialist medical facility, which means it is a requirement you have a letter from your referral doctor prior to making your appointment with us. Our surgeons are highly qualified in the specialist area of ear, nose and throat problems and are able to conduct surgery when necessary.
What are adenoids and what is their function?
The adenoids are a small group of tonsillar tissue located at the back of the nose…
These tissues help to detect infections early before becoming too problematic, and also are able to stimulate a timely response to infections. Sometimes adults or children have a functional excess of this tissue, and can cause breathing problems or draining issues.
These issues can be prevented if excess tissue is found early and surgically removed to open up the airway for easier nose-breathing. At ENT Surgeons of Melbourne, we are able to surgically remove the adenoids so your child can reclaim a higher quality of life and healthier jaw development.
How can snoring be dangerous?
Snoring can actually be a large indicator of a more serious issue…
When the muscles at the back of the throat relax during sleep, sometimes they can fall further than normal; partially blocking the airway. The air rushing past these muscles then causes them to vibrate, making the sound we all know as snoring.
A large symptom of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), snoring can actually be a sign of a more significant problem. OSA occurs when the muscles at the back of the throat actually block the passage of air, which stops the sufferer’s breathing momentarily. The brain then has to kick-stark the breathing process in order to obtain oxygen, which wakes the sufferer up. This can happen hundreds of times a night without any recollection from the sufferer.
What happens at my first visit to ENT Surgeons of Melbourne?
On your first visit it is best to allow at least one hour for your initial consultation appointment, in case there are any delays…
It is important to bring along as much information as possible to your initial visit, which should include:
- Your Medicare Card – please note we do not bulk bill
- Your private health insurance card – in case surgery is required
- Your referral
- A list of all medications you are currently taking
- A copy of any sleep, studies, X-Rays or CT scans taken within the last year specific to the condition we are seeing you for (not just the reports, but also the films if possible)
- A family member to take notes/help with questions especially if there is hearing loss or speech barrier, or if the patient is coming from a nursing home
- Leave yourself plenty of time for your new patient appointment. This will help to lower stress levels and make you more relaxed during your appointment.
Should I stop smoking before my procedure?
Yes – smoking is not only bad for your health in general, it can cause complications during surgery…
Smoking can negatively affect the anaesthetic and wound healing, therefore we recommend you stop smoking at least 24 hours prior to your anaesthetic administration. It is preferred and actually ideal to stop smoking a week prior to and after your surgery.
